Learning should be meaningful and relevant. And FUN! We know that kids will remember more and will be more likely to continue pursuing a subject if it’s exciting and interesting.

Some kids are hesitant to seek out STEM courses, workshops or camps because they think they might be “hard” or “boring,” but they don’t need to be! Science, Technology, Engineering and Math are at the heart of so many interesting topics that can become rewarding, sought after careers! Here are a few ways that teachers and parents can make STEM learning more interesting and engaging.

Address real-world issues: If students feel like they’re solving a problem that actually exists, their level of investment increases dramatically. Identify issues in your home, school or community that can be improved by an invention. Talk about things around you that have been impacted by STEM ideas or developments.

Take a field trip: Let students see STEM in action by visiting any number of locations. Science museums or space centers are obvious choices, but you can find STEM principles in factories, product development labs, architectural firms, farms and more.

Create a unified “STEM literacy”: Start early and be consistent with the terminology of STEM principles and the familiarization of the scientific method, even across curriculum lines. Help students learn how to use technology for more than just the internet. Lessons in basic coding from a young age will demystify computer programming and create lasting interest.

Boosting enjoyment of STEM learning and later STEM careers benefits all of us, as students grow up to be our future doctors, teachers, astronauts and engineers.